Switching from 40mg Citalopram to Prozac

I'm 50 and I've been taking Celexa for 20 years. It just doesn't work for me anymore. I had a total hysterectomy in 2012 and was on estradiol until weaning off about 2 months ago at my doctor's instruction. My mom died suddenly October 4, probably am embolism. Our relationship was strained. The good news is, I have a great support system in my husband and his mom, friends, and a therapist I started seeing several weeks before mom died. It's funny, I started going to my therapist for help with dealing with my anxiety about my aging parents and their refusal to move into a safer living situation. Turns out it was wonderful timing to have that established relationship with her when mom died.

It's just been a lot. My therapist suggested a different medication might be a catalyst ...So here I go.

It's so scary, because while I'm sad, anxious, frequently irritable, sleeping too much, and all the rest, at least it's familiar ground. But I'm tired of feeling sad, overwhelmed, and wanting to avoid people. I'm dealing with chronic pain from some orthopedic issues in my arms as well, and that keeps me from driving much, traveling for my self-employment work, doing a lot on the computer, gardening, photography and art -- all those things that make me feel well-rounded and spark something in me.

So the switch...

My family doc is having me halve my Celexa dose daily for a week, then take that half dose every other day for a week, then start on the Prozac.

I don't know what to expect. It's just so darn scary.

Please, anyone?

Hey there

I’m sorry about the late reply. I just came across this post!

I’m actually making the same exact switch as you and hope to start it tonight. I’m super nervous for it though. But I’m a ball of anxiety and feel a change has to be made.

I think you’ve got a good technique to it, as I have read that first tapering down off of the citalopram will minimize any potential side effects. How have you been so far?

I’m with you on this! Just know you’re not alone out there and there are people who understand and support you!

Best wishes

Hey there  

I’m sorry about the late reply but I just came across this as I’m about to make the same switch as you are! I really hope things are going better for you. 

I heard that tapering down the citalopram first is the way to go as it will reduce any potential symptoms of withdrawal. How have you been so far? I think I’m going to start tapering down my citalopram today and see how it feels.

Best wishes!